Behind the Curtain...

By Maria Manliclic

Finishing touches are being made on the Pacific Northwest Ballet's new production of the classic fairy tale "The Sleeping Beauty," the company's largest production ever, by several dozen local artisans, including Ballard Millinery Studio's own Wayne Wichern.

A master hat maker since 1986, Wichern was tapped last April by PNB's costume shop manager Meleta Buckstaff to create dozens of hats that will adorn costumes — including the Duchess, Baroness, Countess, Marchioness, and more — designed by Paul Tazewell, the Academy Awards-nominated ("West Side Story") and Tony Awards-winner ("Hamilton") designer whose work can currently be seen in the movie musical "Wicked."

Hand-carved wood blocks were used to create the shapes for the hats in "The Sleeping Beauty," the Pacific Northwest Ballet's largest production in its history.

Wool felt blocked over one of the wood forms.

Cutting and wiring the shape of a brim.

Adding stretch velvet detailing to brim edge.

For Wichern, the task of making Tazewell's concept come to life began in earnest last June. With some last-minute help in January from milliner Tina Giuntini, also a member of the Seattle-based BMS collective made up of six hat makers, a total of 24 hats have been completed using a traditional technique known as blocking, shaping the dyed wool felt over hand carved wooden blocks, then applying stretch black velvet and Italian silk. The prominent black lines featured on the headpieces are inspired by Native American glass artist Preston Singletary's scenic design and cultural heritage, which influenced Tazewell's costume designs.

Before the iconic ballet opens on Jan. 31 and kicks off PNB's 2025 season, here's a peek at Wichern at work.

Wichern in action working on a main character piece.